Leaky roof, possible mold alarms Richmond firefighters

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RICHMOND, Va. (WTVR) -- They know the danger when they put on their uniform, but some Richmond firefighters say one firehouse has them concerned about their health.

Fire Station No. 14 on Hawthorne Avenue, which was built in 1950 and renovated in 1983, is showing signs of age. From rotten wood on the building's facade, to missing ceiling tiles that collapsed during a rain storm, signs of water leaks are clearly visible inside.

"It is evident that there are some leaks and some issues that need to be addressed," said Richmond Fire Department's Lt. Robbie Hagaman.

In fact, things got so bad for one firefighter, that he had to add a drip pan above his locker to prevent water from dripping inside his locker.

But while the building is occupied by the fire department, the city's Department of Public Works is responsible for maintenance.

Sources said the fire department filed the proper requests for repairs in 2012 -- and again this year.

The mayor's office issued a statement Wednesday afternoon saying in part that “concern is always placed on ensuring that workers are not in a hazardous situation, and we have no evidence of that at this time."

However, city officials admitted they are awaiting results from an air quality test last month. A new roof is scheduled to be installed at the firehouse in 2015.